Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz Launches CM Education Card to Reform Schools

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has unveiled a comprehensive education reform initiative aimed at transforming the province’s school infrastructure, faculty development, and student learning standards. A key component of this initiative is the launch of the CM Education Card, which will provide direct benefits to students enrolled in government schools. Additionally, to encourage academic excellence, students scoring over 80% marks will receive the CM Eminence/Star Card as a reward.

The reforms also prioritize expanding access to education, with an ambitious goal of enrolling two million out-of-school children annually. To enhance student well-being and boost attendance, the government has directed the immediate launch of a school meal program in districts like Bhakkar and Layyah.

The Public School Reorganization Program has already yielded promising results. Since its implementation, student enrollment has surged by 52%, increasing from 242,000 to 368,000. Teacher recruitment in outsourced schools has also grown by 89%, with their salaries tripling to improve motivation and retention. Infrastructure improvements have been substantial, including the construction of 35 new classrooms, the renovation of 459 existing ones, the addition of 110 new toilets, and the upgradation of 2,762 existing sanitation facilities. Furthermore, schools have been equipped with modern computer labs, enhanced boundary walls, and upgraded water supply systems, ensuring a better learning environment.

A major step towards modernizing education is the introduction of technical education from Grade 5, with plans to establish a state-of-the-art lab for Matric Tech students. New vocational courses in agriculture, fashion design, and ICT (Information and Communication Technology) will also be introduced at the matriculation level. Special attention is being given to English language education, with a pilot project for English conversation classes launched in 338 schools in Lahore. The Punjab government is working on an agreement to introduce internationally certified English courses in public schools to enhance language proficiency.

To ensure efficient school administration, the government has completed the appointment of 287 CEOs, DEOs, and education officers across Punjab. Additionally, under the School Teacher Internship Program, 12,500 interns will be recruited to strengthen the teaching workforce. For the first time in Punjab’s history, textbooks were delivered at the start of the academic year in March, resolving a persistent challenge in public schools.

Looking ahead, the Punjab government’s five-year development plan includes the construction of 30,000 new classrooms, 600 elementary schools, and 400 high schools. The government is also engaging alumni networks to support school infrastructure development, including building new classrooms, playgrounds, and school facilities.

Emphasizing the importance of accountability and efficiency, Maryam Nawaz has stressed the need to elevate public schools to the standards of top private institutions. She highlighted that spending without a clear vision is wasteful and underscored her government’s commitment to ensuring tangible improvements in Punjab’s education system. These reforms mark a significant step forward in reshaping the educational landscape of the province.